Dynamic bone imaging with 99mTc-labeled diphosphonates and 18F-NaF: mechanisms and applications.

Dynamic bone scanning with (99m)Tc-labeled diphosphonates and (18)F-labeled sodium fluoride provides functional information sensitive for subtle changes in bone turnover and perfusion, which assists the clinical management of numerous osseous pathologies. This article reviews the mechanisms of uptake of (99m)Tc-labeled diphosphonates and (18)F-sodium fluoride and discusses and compares the performance of these bone-seeking radiotracers for clinical and research applications, using dynamic and multiple-time-point imaging protocols and quantitative techniques.